Elaine J. Giambattista

Elaine Giambattista, 65, of Chaplin, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2006 following a long illness. Born August 28, 1940 to Florence and the late Wilfred Champagne of Norwich, Elaine graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 1958. She spent many years out west before returning home to Connecticut in 1983. An avid lover of the outdoors, she spent much of her time gardening and taking nature walks with her husband of 33 years and best friend, Jack. Elaine also enjoyed cooking, one of her all time favorite pastimes. She was a talented artist, loved to bird-watch and fish. Besides her beloved husband, she is survived by her mother, Florence Champagne of Norwich, her brother Bob Champagne of Scott Valley, CA, her three children Glenn Gero of Mesa, AZ; Jacqueline (Gero) Mulroy of Novato, CA; and Darren Gero of New York City, NY, all formerly of Jewett City, CT, and her two step-children, Tammy Griffin of Mansfield, CT and David Giambattista of Moosup, Ct. She also leaves 8 grandchildren: Ashley, Ryan, Michelle, Danielle Gero; Patrick and Kelly Mulroy; David Giambattista, Jr. and Brendon Griffin. Friends and family are invited to share their memories during calling hours to be held at Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic on Wednesday, July 19th from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Burial arrangements will be private at the request of the family.